From the Readers

Support Vibrant AA and NHPI Communities

Dear Joe, As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves at another crossroads for our communities. In the wake of the recent election, National CAPACD remains steadfast in our mission to support Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) communities. For 25 years, we responded to critical moments in history—helping our coalition of local, community- based organizations rebuild after 9/11, navigate the housing and financial crisis, and meet the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At this moment, we need your partnership to address the most urgent challenges facing AA and NHPI communities: underfunding, displacement, and cultural erasure. These challenges threaten the vibrant neighborhoods and rich cultural histories that define the character of our country.

Why Your Support Matters

• Trusted Community Leadership Community-based organizations are at the heart of resilient neighborhoods. They are trusted institutions that understand the unique needs of their communities and provide culturally and linguistically competent services. Supporting National CAPACD ensures these organizations receive the resources to reach those who need them most.

• Investing in Equity and Resilience AA and NHPI communities are facing displacement at alarming rates, threatening to erase histories, traditions, and livelihoods. National CAPACD is positioned to mobilize the coalition and advance anti-displacement policies through state-level initiatives and model legislation to preserve our neighborhoods.

• Creating Vibrant and Inclusive Futures Investing in AA and NHPI neighborhoods uplifts underrepresented voices, strengthens the social fabric, and promotes an inclusive vision of our shared future. National CAPACD’s communications expertise is well-positioned for timely and effective responses to harmful narratives or policy threats. Donate Today: Your gift directly supports National CAPACD and our coalition of over 160 community- based organizations across the country. Donate here today.

• Grant Support and Partnership: Partnerships between philanthropy and National CAPACD can be transformative for your organization and the communities we serve. Together, we can drive innovative solutions to promote economic development, prevent displacement, and create sustainable impact in low- and moderate-income AA and NHPI neighborhoods. Contact Neel Saxena at neel@nationalcapacd.org to learn more.

• Join our Coalition: If you are a local, community-based organization working with low-income Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, we welcome you to apply for membership to our coalition. Join us in our efforts to preserve healthy, vibrant neighborhoods, empower local communities, and advance our collective vision.

We can meet this moment and ensure AA and NHPI communities persevere and thrive. With your support, we can continue to fight for vibrant places of belonging, equitable opportunities, and a future where no community is left behind. Thank you for your generosity and belief in our mission.

In partnership, Seema Agnani Chief Executive Officer National CAPACD

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Have you registered yet?

The GoldenAgers have been hard at work rehearsing for their upcoming recital!

Please join us for our GoldenAgers Recital and Volunteer Appreciation gathering this Saturday Dec 14 from 11a – 3p at the HANA Center and show them your support.

We are excited to honor our elders and volunteers at this end-of-year gathering, and we are looking forward to uplifting some key moments of 2024 with you. Make merry with a performance by our GoldenAgers, connect with our team of staff, board, and volunteers, and stay for the social hang times! Make sure to RSVP so we can order enough food! Visit tinyurl.com/afire-recital or scan the QR code. See you soon!

Maraming salamat po!

AFIRE CHICAGO

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Flight Attendants Share Secrets for Surviving Holiday Travel

Dear Editor, The holiday travel season can be stressful, but who better to help navigate the chaos than seasoned flight attendants? From packing smart to choosing the best flight times, these experts share insider tips to make your journey smoother. Their advice includes carrying essential items in a personal bag, arriving early to avoid long security lines, and maintaining flexibility for last-minute changes. With these strategies, travelers can minimize headaches and focus on enjoying their holiday destinations. RIGHTSIDE OFFERS

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Do You Want Healing?

14th Annual Toy Drive… It’s that time again…Time for my 14th Annual Toy Drive, and I’m doing a special healing for the 12/12 Gateway!

The 12/12 Gateway portal happens every year on December 12 when the date matches up. It’s like a special doorway linked with the number 12 in numerology, letting you connect deeply with what you want and as I often do on high energy days, I’ll be doing a special healing! Donate Any Amount if you would like to be included in this special healing! 100% of the money raised will go to buy toys for children in need this holiday season. I pay all the costs to make this happen…paypal fees, advertising costs, shipping fees (for giveaway items) and much more! Although I’ve been doing it longer, this year is officially the 14th Annual Toy Drive! Last year, we collected just over $4000 in donations, for the second year in a row!… we even had to rent a van to deliver all the toys! (we paid for that too)

Jeff

Home Study Reiki